Page 69 of Asmodel

“Although the PsyShields constrain most of my powers, I can still read what’s uppermost in your mind,” she said.

Raxx’s cheeks darkened.

Oh dear. Izzy glanced at Asmodel, noticing his bemused smile. Seemed like Prisma-Solara’s announcement didn’t catch him by surprise.

“We aren’t showing you anything until we know what a QLR is and what it’s used for.” Talira was firm as she glared at the Krystalii.

“That, my friend, is something unique. Not only in this galaxy, but I assure you, Lord Baelon would do anything to get his hands on one.” The crystals in Prisma-Solara’s body caught the low light and gave her an ethereal glow. “Once a theoretical device, it’s comprised of synthetic Quantum Crystals grown in the micro-gravity of deep space. Each crystal aligns at the quantum level, creating a lattice capable of resonating with the very fabric of space-time. It needs rare elements like Etherium to provide the stability for a ship to fold space. Without it, the unforgiving forces of space would obliterate the vessel it was in.” She eyed Raxx. “Are you telling us you have such a thing?”

Raxx pressed his lips together and glared.

Asmodel turned to Prisma-Solara. “If you know so much about the QLR, I’m surprised your people haven’t already created it.”

“You heard me say they were made of synthetic crystals, didn’t you?” When Asmodel nodded, she continued. “Lord Baelon decreed all production of synthetic crystals was an abomination and outlawed. The QLR never got past the theory stage in our dimension.”

“Yet, he’d take one and use it if he could,” Izzy mused. Any dictator she’d studied in Earth’s history wouldn’t have any qualms about using something they’d outlawed for others.

“That is correct.” Prisma-Solara answered with a short nod. “It would accelerate his timeline in advancing his forces to this dimension.”

“I may have, ah, borrowed a QLR from the Vargrux. But, believe you me, whoever they stole it from probably has more.” Raxx made this warning with a steady stare at Jaltaar and Talira.

“Then it’s imperative we get to the Federation Consortium as soon as possible,” Asmodel stated. “Once your ship is ready, how long will it take for us to get there?”

“Once I install the Etherium, all I gotta do is input the coordinates and let my baby do her thing. Then,whammo!” He snapped his fingers. “We’re there. Easy-peasy. Trust me, it got us here in the first place that quick, eh?”

“Trust me, the organic buffoon says.” JR13 spoke up from Asmodel’s shoulder in a whisper.

Izzy strayed nearer to Asmodel so she could hear what else he said.

“I wouldn’t trust him to point out the exit in a one-room cabin,” the bot continued. “But rest assured, I’ll work with Echo to make sure everything in the QLR is working properly.”

Asmodel nodded, then glanced at Raxx. “If I can help, just let me know.”

Raxx “pshawed” and waved the offer away. “No worries. We’ve got it.”

“So, just to make sure, you’re okay with providing the Etherium?” Asmodel asked the scikvak.

Izzy glanced at Jaltaar and Talira, whose faces bore a mix of distrust and reluctant hope. After a moment, both nodded.

“Well, good.” Asmodel folded his hands behind his back. “Here’s how we’ll compensate you for the mineral. If at any time you have trouble, use this with your communication system to contact us.” He opened his palm and a swirl of light morphed into a square disk. “It’s a direct line to our friend’s ship.” He patted Raxx’s shoulder. “And he’ll come running as if the hounds of Gilgamesh are after him to aid you with whatever you need,” he assured them with a grin.

“Hey!” Raxx exclaimed with a step back.

Asmodel’s hand dropped away.

“I never…”

“As for you, think of this as a goodwill gesture to the chancellor, along with the QLR, when we bring your case before him to have your, ah, past indiscretions wiped clean. Sound good, dude?”

Izzy chuckled when Asmodel said,dude.

Raxx’s eyebrows furrowed as his dark eyes turned black and he glared. Crossing his arms, he spoke through pinched lips. “I suppose so.” He pointed his finger at Asmodel. “Next time, ask before you go pimping me out like that. At least buy me a drink first. I have some standards, ya know. Not much, but some.”

Izzy’s grin widened. The mischievous twinkle in Raxx’s eyes reassured her he wasn’t too stressed about it. She doubted he’d agree if he didn’t mean it.

Jaltaar’s eyes narrowed as he gazed between Asmodel and Raxx before his black lips curled into a cheeky grin. “In exchange for the Etherium, how would you like having exclusive trading rights with CeluriaVO?”

Raxx’s jaw dropped. “For reals, dude?”

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